Cruisers who live in Embarkation Port Cities like Seattle or Ft Lauderdale

[Zubsin]

For those of you fortunate enough to live a embarkation cities like Seattle or Ft Lauderdale have you ever approached a ship on departure day to see what kind of deals you could get for that days departure? Or do you call the cruise line the night before to see if they will offer a deal? We met a couple on our last cruise who live in San Juan, PR but they said they had called a week earlier. We live near Seattle and will be in Ft Lauderdale at various times this year and thought "WHAT THE HECK?" we should try...any comments, recommendations, success stories you woul share with us. Thanks and cruise on! Donna

[kitty9]

Some lines will allow last minute deals, but most cruise lines say you have to book at least 72 hours before departure. Lots of things changed after 9/11.

[paul929207]

Since 9/11, cruise lines have to give a passenger list to TSA 72 hours before they sail. The days of gettng a deal on the dock as the ship was about to sail are gone.

[Zubsin]

thanks...I can do 72 hours! Donna

[wrp96]

You can't walk up to the pier and buy a cruise. Some cruiselines will let you book as late as the night before, Carnival I believe will allow you to call the morning of the cruise and make a reservation if there is space available.

[Zubsin]

Has anyone gotten a deal 72 hours in advance? dlz